Tool
Inputs → outputs
This page is intentionally practical: get numbers first, then read the how-to.
Inputs
- • Distance (km/mi)
- • Cutoff time (hh:mm)
- • Planned pace (sec per unit) (optional)
Outputs
- • Required average pace
- • Planned finish time
- • Buffer vs cutoff
Examples
Calculator
Ultra cutoff planner
Compute the minimum average pace to beat a cutoff, and sanity-check your buffer with a planned pace.
Example: 420 sec per km = 7:00/km.
Required pace (km)
Planned finish
Buffer vs cutoff
Limitation: this ignores elevation, trail surface, aid-station stoppage, and mandatory gear transitions. Use it as a baseline, then add margin.
Assumptions
What this tool assumes
- • You can translate average pace into on-course execution (terrain can break this).
- • Aid-station time is not included — add margin.
Limitations
What can break it
- • Does not account for elevation gain/loss, technical trails, heat, or mandatory gear transitions.
- • Cutoffs are often per-segment; you should verify segment rules and plan accordingly.
Related
Use this with a plan
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FAQs
Why do I need extra margin?
Ultras include aid-station time, terrain slowdowns, and fatigue drift. A cutoff is a hard line; planning margin is the safe move.
Should I pace by mile/km splits?
Usually not. Pace by effort and terrain, then use cutoffs as checkpoints rather than rigid split targets.
What’s the best way to avoid missing cutoffs?
Start conservatively, keep moving through stations, and avoid big spikes in effort early that cause late crashes.
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